In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC — Pacific leaders converge in Fiji for key Troika talks
2. PACIFIC — Alarm sounded on radioactive risk from deep sea mining
3. FIJI — Fiji Military Commander Kalouniwai given option to extend term, PM Rabuka reveals
4. SOL — PM Wale reaffirms Japan ties, pledges ‘balanced foreign policy
5. FIJI — Fiji urges global action to put indigenous knowledge at the centre of climate solutions
6. VAN — Vanuatu Minister of Internal Affairs Napuat pushes stronger Melanesian cooperation to combat cross-border crime
7. PACIFIC — Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat receives US$2M development cooperation contribution
8. FIJI — State files appeal in former Fiji AG Sayed-Khaiyum, former Supervisor of Election Saneem acquittals
9. UN — UN remains firmly opposed to death penalty
10. PNG — China, PNG see 50 years of bilateral cooperation
11.UN — Children are turning to AI for homework – and life advice
12. PACNEWS BIZ — UN scraps rule forcing it to repay money it never received
13. PACNEWS BIZ — Samoan restaurant TALA awarded Michelin star
14. PACNEWS BIZ — Papua New Guinea pushes labour reforms via dialogue
15. PACNEWS BIZ — Strait of Hormuz: Gradual re-opening is no quick fix for developing nations, UN warns
16. PACNEWS IN FOCUS — PEV performance augurs well for this year’s ballot
17 PACNEWS DIGEST — Fiji Meteorological Service marks new era in preserving Fiji’s climate history with archive handover
18. PACNEWS DIGEST — Fiji Meteorological Service strengthens pathway towards International Laboratory Accreditation through ISO/IEC 17025:2017 training workshop
PAC – DIPLOMACY: PACNEWS PACNEWS 3: Wed 01 Jul 2026
Pacific leaders converge in Fiji for key Troika talks
SUVA, 01 JULY 2026 (PACNEWS) — Pacific leaders have arrived in Suva ahead of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Troika Meeting, with Palau President Surangel S. Whipps Jr and Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale holding engagements before regional talks begin.
President Whipps arrived in Fiji on Tuesday to participate in the Troika Meeting, where regional leaders will discuss key priorities for the Blue Pacific.
The visit comes as Palau prepares to host the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in September.
According to the Office of the President of Palau, the discussions are an important step towards strengthening regional unity, advancing shared priorities and shaping outcomes for the Pacific.
President Whipps also expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Fiji, and to Fiji’s Foreign Minister, Sakiasi Ditoka, for the warm welcome and hospitality extended on his arrival.
Meanwhile, Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale was today accorded a traditional welcome in Suva by Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and the Government of Fiji.
The ceremony began with Prime Minister Wale acknowledging Prime Minister Rabuka for the warm reception extended to him since arriving in Fiji.
The traditional welcome was hosted by the Government of Fiji, led by Prime Minister Rabuka, on behalf of the people of Fiji in honour of Prime Minister Wale as a distinguished guest.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Wale thanked the Government and people of Fiji for their hospitality, saying Fiji has always been a close Melanesian brother and continues to provide strong leadership within the region.
Prime Minister Wale is also scheduled to meet Fiji’s President and hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Rabuka before joining regional leaders for the Pacific Islands Forum Troika Meeting…. PACNEWS
PAC – DEEP SEA MINING: AAP PACNEWS 3: Wed 01 Jul 2026
Alarm sounded on radioactive risk from deep sea mining
SYDNEY, 01 JULY 2026 (AAP) — Plucking minerals from the ocean floor risks disturbed radioactive material entering the marine food chain, an anti-deep sea mining group warns.
The Deep-Sea Mining Campaign says the emerging industry could stir up and spread radioactive particles that concentrate on the sea floor, with potentially harmful ramifications for marine creatures that ingest or inhale them.
Seafood eaters, including humans, could also be exposed, says the report from the alliance of NGOs, scientists and citizens from Australia, Papua New Guinea and Canada.
The still-exploratory practice of deep-sea mining involves retrieving mineral deposits from the ocean floor, namely targeting polymetallic “nodules” found predominantly in international waters.
Proposed processes differ by company but the mining typically involves extracting minerals from the sea floor and leaving behind sediment in the water.
Proponents say there is growing demand for nickel, manganese and other minerals found on the seabed for clean energy, defence and technology, and that mining on land poses environmental and social risks.
But questions remain as to the environmental significance of the deep seas and the consequences of mining it – particularly in international waters – prompting green groups and some countries to call for a moratorium until more is discovered.
There are still no globally accepted rules for deep sea mining in the high seas.
The United Nations body set up to regulate the industry, the International Seabed Authority, is meeting in July to continue discussions.
Deep Sea Mining Campaign research co-ordinator Helen Rosenbaum said potential health impacts experienced by workers handling radioactive nodules was already under investigation but the harms posed to marine ecosystems were unexplored.
Radioactive alpha emitters accumulate naturally on the sea floor, including in the polymetallic nodules miners would target.
Sea-bed marine ecosystems can cope with some background radioactivity but the researchers say disturbing the sea floor would mobilise the material and likely expose more marine life.
Dr Rosenbaum said alpha particles were easily blocked by barriers such as skin or paper but were “extremely dangerous” when inhaled or ingested.
“Marine life cannot escape polluted water; they will breathe it in and swallow it, and eat prey contaminated by mining operations,” she said.
Deep sea mining has become controversial for Pacific Island countries near mineral-rich seabed, with the promise of new income streams butting up against environmental and social risks.
The Cook Islands, for example, has been supportive of deep-sea mining in its territory in the interests of diversifying its tourism-dependent economy.
Alanna Matamaru Smith, from the Te Ipukarea Society in the Cook Islands, said the report raised important questions about potential ecotoxicity within marine food webs that could threaten a vital source of food for Pacific Island communities.
“It highlights exactly the type of issues that Pacific peoples and their leaders need hard data on, in order to make informed decisions about the future of our ocean resources,” she said…. PACNEWS
FIJI – MILITARY CHIEF: FIJI SUN PACNEWS 3: Wed 01 Jun 206
Fiji Military Commander Kalouniwai given option to extend term, PM reveals
SUVA, 01 JULY 2026 (FIJI SUN) — Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka revealed that the Constitutional Offices Commission had decided to offer Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai an extension to his term.
The decision would then be conveyed to the Minister for Defence of Veteran Affairs Pio Tikoduadua.
“The COC has decided that it will give him another opportunity – an opportunity to say yes to an extension.
“If he (RFMF Commander) is willing to accept, that’s it,” the Prime Minister said.
Rabuka said the Commander had already indicated earlier that he was willing to be considered for an extension.
This meant that Major-General Kalouniwai would not need to reapply for the position.
“The Commander was approached in the beginning on whether he was willing to be nominated for an extension, and he did that,” Rabuka said.
He said COC had deferred making a decision until the end of June to allow time to consider all available options and developments before reaching a final decision at its meeting on Monday.
Meanwhile, the decision for the appointment of a Fiji Corrections Services (FCS) commissioner would require more time.
Rabuka said the COC would need to set up a selection panel for it.
FCS Acting commissioner Auta Moceisuva is understood to have expressed his interest in applying for the post…. PACNEWS
SOL – DIPLOMACY: INDEPTH SOLOMONS PACNEWS 3: Wed 01 Jul 2026
PM Wale reaffirms Japan ties, pledges ‘balanced foreign policy
HONIARA, 01 JULY 2026 (INDEPTH SOLOMONS) — Prime Minister Matthew Wale says Solomon Islands is pursuing a balanced and constructive foreign policy while reaffirming the country’s longstanding partnership with Japan.
Wale made the remarks during bilateral talks with Japan’s visiting State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Iwao Horii, in Honiara Tuesday.
“We are committed to engaging with all countries in a manner that is mutually respectful and mutually beneficial,” Wale told Horii.
“Our approach is to build broad, inclusive partnerships that deliver tangible outcomes for our people,” he added.
The Prime Minister thanked Japan for its decades of support to Solomon Islands and praised its use of diplomacy and development assistance to build strong international relationships.
“Japan’s soft power has been remarkably effective in fostering genuine and lasting friendships across the world.
“We have long admired how Japan engages globally with respect, consistency and goodwill,” he said.
Wale said Solomon Islands had benefited significantly from Japan’s assistance over the years.
“Many of your contributions here have made a meaningful difference and we sincerely appreciate them.
“We look forward to strengthening this partnership even further in the years ahead.”
Over the years, Japan has funded a number of major infrastructure projects across Solomon Islands.
These include the Honiara Highway Road Project, Honiara Central Market, the Honiara International Airport terminal, Gizo Hospital in Western Province, Auki Market and Wharf, and the soon-to-be-completed Kilufi’i Hospital in Malaita.
Horii reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Solomon Islands, describing the two countries as longstanding partners connected by the Pacific and bound by mutual respect.
He said Japan remained committed to supporting Solomon Islands’ sustainable economic development while responding to the country’s priorities.
“For many years, Japan has placed great importance on supporting the sustainable economic growth of Solomon Islands,” Horii said.
“We will continue to listen closely to your national priorities and work together to address the challenges facing your country,” he added.
He also welcomed the Wale Government’s commitment to maintaining balanced and constructive relations with all international partners.
“Japan stands ready to support the new Government’s key policy initiatives,” Horii said…. PACNEWS
FIJI – CLIMATE CHANGE: FIJI GOVT PACNEWS 3: Wed 01 Jul 2026
Fiji urges global action to put indigenous knowledge at the centre of climate solutions
BANGKOK, 01 JULY 2026 (FIJI GOVT) — Fiji has called on the international community to recognise Indigenous knowledge as a vital part of global climate action, while urging stronger climate justice, greater energy resilience and increased support for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Speaking at the Ministerial Roundtable on Climate Justice, Energy Resilience and SIDS at the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok, Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) Chair and Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change, Lynda Tabuya, said Pacific communities have lived sustainably with nature for generations and their traditional knowledge must stand alongside science in shaping climate solutions.
“Indigenous Peoples are not just stakeholders. We are rights holders. Our knowledge systems have sustained our people and our environment for centuries and must be recognised as part of the solution,” she said.
Tabuya also called for greater climate finance, fair partnerships and practical solutions to strengthen energy resilience.
Reflecting on Fiji’s recent fuel crisis, she shared how cancelled shipping services left maritime communities, including her home province of Kadavu, unable to transport produce or preserve food, highlighting the vulnerability of island communities that rely heavily on fossil fuels.
She said Fiji’s Fiji Rural Electrification Fund is helping address these challenges by delivering solar mini-grid systems to remote maritime communities, while reaffirming Fiji’s support for a just global transition away from fossil fuels through technology transfer, capacity building and international cooperation.
Minister Tabuya also called for reforms to the international financial system to improve access to concessional climate finance, strengthen support for adaptation and loss and damage, and keep the 1.5°C target within reach.
“Fiji will continue to lead, to advocate and to act. We call on all countries to do the same,” she said.
The roundtable brought together ministers from fellow Small Island Developing States, including the Maldives, as well as senior United Nations officials and development partners to discuss integrated solutions for climate resilience, energy security and sustainable development.
Meanwhile, PSIDS Chair Lynda Tabuya has reaffirmed Fiji’s leadership on climate action, oceans and sustainable development during a bilateral meeting with the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, Li Junhua.
Discussions focused on strengthening Fiji’s partnership with the United Nations and preparations for the Pacific-hosted Pre-COP meeting, which Fiji will host from 5-8 October with Australia’s support ahead of COP31.
Tabuya said Pre-COP provides a vital opportunity to place Pacific priorities at the centre of global climate negotiations, highlighting the region’s leadership in practical climate solutions.
She outlined Fiji’s priorities for COP31, including protecting the 1.5°C goal, improving access to climate finance for Small Island Developing States, strengthening recognition of the ocean-climate nexus, and amplifying Pacific voices in global decision-making.
The Minister also welcomed the appointment of Fiji Opposition leader Inia Seruiratu as the Pacific Climate Envoy for the Ocean under the Türkiye–Australia COP31 Presidency, saying Fiji looks forward to working closely with the Pacific Climate Envoys, regional leaders and partners to advance shared priorities.
Tabuya reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to working with the United Nations and international partners to ensure Pacific priorities continue to shape global climate action…. PACNEWS
VAN – TRANSNATIONAL CRIME: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS 3: Wed 01 Jul 2026
Vanuatu Minister of Internal Affairs Napuat pushes stronger Melanesian cooperation to combat cross-border crime
PORT VILA, 01 JULY 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST) — The Government of Vanuatu is strengthening regional cooperation with its Melanesian neighbours as part of efforts to combat the growing threat of transnational crime, illicit drug trafficking and related security challenges.
Minister of Internal Affairs Andrew Solomon Napuat said the Government has decided to address the issue before it escalates.
“The reason we are beginning this conversation now is because transnational crime, illicit drugs and HIV-related threats are increasing. We do not want to wait until these issues become much bigger before we start talking about them,” Minister Napuat said during a press conference in Port Vila.
The Minister revealed that he had recently returned from Solomon Islands, where he held discussions with his Solomon Islands counterpart, Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services John Junior Tuhaika, on strengthening cooperation between the two countries.
He said the discussions focused on the need for Melanesian countries to work more closely together to address common security challenges, particularly transnational crime, illicit drug trafficking and other criminal activities occurring across shared maritime borders.
“I have started discussions with my counterparts in Melanesia because, as a region, we need to work together to address the common challenges we are facing, particularly transnational drug trafficking and other illegal activities taking place across our borders,” he said.
Minister Napuat said one of the key objectives of his visit was to discuss a new police cooperation agreement between Vanuatu and Solomon Islands.
He said the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is expected to strengthen collaboration between the police forces of both countries in addressing cross-border crime.
The Minister noted that Vanuatu and Solomon Islands have maintained strong bilateral relations for many years, including cooperation under the SOLVAN cooperation framework, which has existed since 2012.
He recalled that during his previous term as Minister of Internal Affairs between 2016 and 2020, Vanuatu Police worked closely with Solomon Islands Police through joint operations that produced positive outcomes.
Minister Napuat said agreements such as the Motalava Treaty have strengthened relations between the two countries and made travel easier for their citizens.
However, he warned that increased movement of people across borders also presents opportunities for criminal networks involved in illicit drug trafficking.
“While easier travel is positive for our people, it also exposes us to the threat of illicit drugs and other criminal activities entering through our borders. This is one of the key issues we discussed with our counterparts,” he said.
The Minister also referred to a labour mobility agreement signed between former Prime Minister Charlot Salwai and former Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele in Honiara, saying the arrangement further strengthens ties between Temotu Province in Solomon Islands and TORBA Province in Vanuatu.
He said such agreements highlight the importance of increasing surveillance operations and border coordination between the two countries.
“I believe we must strengthen our coordination and surveillance operations between Vanuatu and Solomon Islands,” he said.
Minister Napuat revealed that recent cases involving young people travelling through Torba Province have reinforced the need for stronger border monitoring.
He also confirmed that discussions have been held with the Minister responsible for Police in Papua New Guinea (PNG).
According to the Minister, PNG’s Police Minister is expected to visit Vanuatu on 6 July, during which both countries are expected to sign a MoU on police cooperation.
He said the proposed agreement will go beyond border management and include training opportunities for members of the Vanuatu Police Force.
“Papua New Guinea has offered access to its Centre of Excellence to assist with the training of our new police recruits. This arrangement has been discussed for some time, and now we intend to make it happen,” Minister Napuat said.
He said maintaining regular communication with police ministers across the region will help turn these initiatives into practical cooperation that strengthens regional security.
Minister Napuat also confirmed that Vanuatu is progressing with a similar police cooperation agreement with Fiji.
He said the proposed MoU has already been considered by the Council of Ministers, which has provided comments ahead of its finalisation.
“It is now only a matter of time before the agreement is finalised and signed,” he said.
The Minister said strengthening these regional partnerships is critical because Vanuatu shares maritime borders with Fiji, Solomon Islands and PNG.
“That is why we are doing this. We share borders with Fiji, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, so it is very important that we increase our coordination to address transnational criminal activities entering our countries, particularly illicit drug trafficking.”
Minister Napuat warned that the Pacific, including Melanesia, is increasingly being targeted by transnational criminal networks involved in the trafficking of illicit drugs.
He said closer regional cooperation, stronger border management and improved intelligence sharing will be essential to protecting communities and safeguarding national security across the region…. PACNEWS
PAC – DIPLOMACY: PIFS PACNEWS 3: Wed 01 Jul 2026
Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat receives US$2M development cooperation contribution
SUVA, 01 JULY 2026 (PIFS) — The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) has received a US$2 million development cooperation contribution from Taiwan/Republic of China to support implementation of regional priorities under the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
The contribution was formally acknowledged during a handover ceremony at the Secretariat on Tuesday 30 June, where Deputy Secretary General Esala Nayasi welcomed Acting Representative Jason Chih-Sheng Huang.
The funding will support implementation of the 2050 Strategy, institutional strengthening, support to Smaller Island States, and collaborative initiatives undertaken through the Council of Regional Organisations of the Pacific (CROP).
Deputy Secretary General Nayasi thanked Taiwan/ Republic of China for its continued support for Pacific regional priorities, noting the shared commitment to strengthening Pacific regional cooperation and advancing aspirations of the Blue Pacific.
Taiwan/Republic of China’s broader support to the Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner (OPOC) and the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF) was also acknowledged…. PACNEWS
FIJI – COURTS: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS 3: Wed 01 Jul 2026
State files appeal in former Fiji AG Sayed-Khaiyum, former Supervisor of Election Saneem acquittals
SUVA, 01 JULY 2026 (FIJI TIMES) — The office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has filed an appeal against the acquittals of former Fiji Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem.
Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Nancy Tikoisuva confirmed that the Notice of Appeal was filed in the Court of Appeal Registry and served on the parties Tuesday.
Sayed-Khaiyum had faced one count of abuse of office, while Saneem had been charged with one count of receiving a corrupt benefit.
The prosecution alleged that between 30 June and 21 July 2022, Sayed-Khaiyum, while Acting Prime Minister and Chair of the Constitutional Offices Commission, executed a second Deed of Variation and Addendum approving the payment or waiver of additional tax liabilities arising from Saneem’s back pay without the approval of the President or the Constitutional Offices Commission, as required under Section 136 of the Constitution.
It was further alleged that between 01 June and 31 July 2022, Saneem unlawfully sought and obtained a benefit exceeding $55,000 (US$27,500) through the approval and payment or waiver of tax under the second deed without the required constitutional approvals.
Chief Justice Salesi Temo acquitted both men of the charges on 26 June 2026.
The ODPP said the State has filed 10 grounds of appeal, arguing that the trial judge erred in law.
According to the prosecution, the judge incorrectly treated the validity of the government contract with the former Supervisor of Elections as the central issue rather than addressing the offences alleged by the State.
The appeal also contends that the judgment failed to properly assess and analyse the substantial evidence presented during the trial, resulting in the acquittal of both respondents.
The State is asking the Court of Appeal to set aside the acquittals and enter convictions against both Sayed-Khaiyum and Saneem…. PACNEWS
UN – DEATH PENALTY: UN NEWS CENTRE PACNEWS 3: Wed 01 Jul 2026
UN remains firmly opposed to death penalty
PARIS, 01 JULY 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) — The United Nations continues its firm opposition to capital punishment in all circumstances, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk told the World Congress Against the Death Penalty in Paris on Tuesday.
“The death penalty is incompatible with human dignity and rights, including not only the right to life, but also to the right not to be subjected to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment,” Türk said.
Hosted by the French organisation Together Against the Death Penalty and sponsored by France, the congress is a triennial event that brings together global stakeholders opposed to capital punishment.
States frequently use the death penalty in a “capricious and discriminatory” manner by targeting political dissenters and disproportionately executing people from poor and marginalised communities, Türk said.
The High Commissioner noted that the death penalty has never been shown to deter crime. Instead, decades of criminological research show that it does not make communities safer.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres addressed the World Congress by video, calling the death penalty “an inhumane form of punishment” that “has no place in the 21st century”.
The High Commissioner highlighted the fact that almost 90 percent of States have put an end to executions in law or in practise.
However, he expressed concern that some countries have recently re-introduced the death penalty or expanded the scope of crimes where it may be imposed.
He specifically identified Israel, Burkina Faso, Iran and China as countries of special concern, either for their recent expansion of the death penalty or lack of transparency surrounding its application.
“I urge all States, everywhere, to join the overwhelming and principled global consensus that use of the death penalty must end everywhere for all offences,” Türk said.
He also encouraged pharmaceutical companies to ensure their products are not used to execute people…. PACNEWS
PNG – DIPLOMACY: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS 3: Wed 01 Jul 2026
China, PNG see 50 years of bilateral cooperation
PORT MORESBY, 01 JULY 2026 (THE NATIONAL) — China’s 50-year bilateral cooperation with Papua New Guinea has been built on three pillars that have provided the foundation for a comprehensive strategic partnership between both countries, says Chinese Ambassador to PNG Yang Xiaoguang.
Yang said the first pillar was mutual political trust, followed by practical cooperation and people-to-people connections, all of which had brought significant contributions to the development of PNG and China since diplomatic relations started in 1976.
“This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and PNG,” he said.
“Over the past half century, under the strategic guidance of our leaders and with the joint efforts of friends from all sectors, we have built three pillars that underpin the sound and steady growth of the China-PNG comprehensive strategic partnership.
“The active and friendly high-level engagements between our two countries have further deepened political mutual trust and created a positive atmosphere for the celebration of the 50th anniversary of our diplomatic ties.”
Yang said in the development sector, China had provided PNG with billions of US dollars in grant aid and concessional loans over the years, and had constructed a large number of projects, including roads, schools, stadiums, hospitals, submarine cables, power grids, digital television and more.
“And since the establishment of diplomatic ties 50 years ago, exchanges between our two countries have grown ever closer, and the friendship between our two peoples has deepened continuously.”
Yang said this during a meeting at the Chinese embassy in Port Moresby on Thursday.
He added that China would continue to support PNG to achieve its development goals, while also addressing other areas of mutual interest.
“Over the past 50 years, China-PNG cooperation has yielded fruitful results, which is only possible with the joint efforts of friends from both countries,” he said.
“We look forward to seeing substantive progress on landmark projects between our two counties, thus contributing more to PNG’s development and revitalisation,” Yang said…. PACNEWS
UN – ARTIFICIAL INTELIGENCE: UN NEWS CENTRE PACNEWS 3: Wed 01 Jul 2026
Children are turning to AI for homework – and life advice
GENEVA, 01 JULY 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) — Millions of children across the globe are already using artificial intelligence to learn, solve problems and even seek advice about personal worries, while safeguards are failing to keep pace with the technology’s rapid adoption.
Based on new data from 10 countries, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) estimates that at least 20 million children have used AI, with young people adopting the technology at rates more than three times faster than adults.
Perhaps most strikingly, an estimated two million children – around one in 10 – said they turn to AI for advice about things that worry them, while 13 million reported using it to help with schoolwork and homework.
“AI is here. It is a growing part of all of our lives” UNICEF said in a statement released on Tuesday. “It is already shaping childhood around the world – for better and for worse.”
While AI offers new opportunities for learning and creativity, UNICEF warns that evidence about its effects on children’s development, emotional well-being and exposure to harm, is only beginning to emerge.
“In effect, a generation is growing up inside a global experiment” the agency said.
Children themselves are increasingly aware of the risks. One-third of those surveyed expressed concern that AI could be used to scam people or spread misinformation, while one-quarter feared their images or videos could be manipulated into sexually explicit deepfakes.
UNICEF warned that children are often the first to experience the consequences of poorly regulated AI systems, despite having little control over how the technology is designed or how their personal data is collected and used.
Ahead of the first Global Dialogue on AI Governance, UNICEF is urging governments and technology companies to put children’s rights at the centre of AI regulation.
The agency called for stronger protections against AI-enabled sexual exploitation, greater investment in research on AI’s impact on child development, safer and more transparent AI systems, improved digital literacy for children and parents, and expanded digital access to prevent a widening AI divide.
“The choices made about AI now” UNICEF said, “will shape children’s safety, privacy, well-being and their equal access to opportunities for decades to come…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
UN – FINANCIAL RULE: UN NEWS CENTRE PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 01 Jul 2026
UN scraps rule forcing it to repay money it never received
NEW YORK, 01 JULY 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) — The United Nations has overthrown a decades-old “Kafkaesque financial rule” that requires it to return unspent funds to Member States – even when those funds had never been deposited in the first place.
The decision taken by the General Assembly on Tuesday follows recommendations from its Fifth Committee, which is responsible for administrative and budgetary matters.
It comes as the UN continues to face a severe liquidity crunch as governments delay paying their mandatory financial contributions, forcing cuts across the system affecting everything from hiring to peacekeeping operations and humanitarian assistance.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the decision in a statement released following the vote, noting that the old financial rules were putting the organisation’s “stability at risk.”
“By its vote, the Assembly has agreed to introduce, for a four-year trial period, a new methodology to ensure that unspent funds are returned to Member States only when they are backed by cash,” the UN chief continued.
“This decision will allow us to manage resources, especially for regular and peacekeeping budgets, in a more predictable and responsible way, and to better deliver on the mandates given by Member States.”
He described the change as “critical for our immediate operational continuity, especially for peacekeeping operations,” and a major improvement for the next Secretary-General who takes over in January next year.
The UN’s top official will no longer be forced to return funds that were “all too often, never even received in the first place.”
The UN ended 2025 with a record high of US$1.6 billion in unpaid assessments, according to the Secretary-General latest report on the Organisation’s financial status, issued last month.
Overall arrears across the regular budget, peacekeeping and two international tribunals exceed US$6.5 billion.
At the beginning of this year, the UN implemented strict cash conservation measures to both reduce and slow expenditures.
“The Secretary-General has requested Member States to either honour their obligations to pay in full and on time or fundamentally overhaul the organisation’s financial rules to prevent an imminent collapse,” the report said.
Until Tuesday night, the financial rules, established 80 years ago, required the UN to give back any unspent funds to Member States as credits against future assessments.
This applied even when underspending results from late contributions or from funds that were never received.
Annalena Baerbock, the General Assembly President, raised the issue in an address to the European Parliament in February.
Highlighting the UN’s “existential liquidity crisis”, she urged European countries “to table proposals to overhaul this Kafkaesque financial rule of reimbursing funds never received…. PACNEWS
PAC – RESTAURANT AWARD: RNZ PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 01 Jul 2026
Samoan restaurant TALA awarded Michelin star
AUCKLAND, 01 JULY 2026 (RNZ) — One Michelin star has been awarded to TALA, making it the first Samoan restaurant in the world to be honoured with the prestigious prize.
Chef Henry Onesemo was the first to be awarded a Michelin star at a ceremony on Tuesday night by Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guides.
TALA now features in New Zealand’s first Michelin Guide, along with a host of other fine dining establishments around Aotearoa.
“Tala means story,” Chef Henry Onesemo said.
“I’m just one of the few ones trying to tell the Samoan food story.”
He joked that he needed time to “go out the back and throw up” before being able to answer any questions.
Meanwhile, Queenstown’s Essence is the only restaurant in New Zealand to be awarded two stars, with Chef Paul Froggatt received a standing ovation.
Froggatt said he was speechless at receiving the honour.
“To be the only restaurant in New Zealand to have this blows my mind.
“It was the dream of a young boy many many years ago… to think I moved to New Zealand to achieve this goal is just amazing.”
In total there were 14 one-star restaurants including:
Inati in Christchurch, led by chef Simon Levy, Ben Bayly’s Ahi, seafood led Ortega in Wellington, The Estate on Auckland’s Waiheke Island, Rātā in Queenstown, Logan Brown in Wellington, Jano Bistro also in Wellington, lunch-only spot Tussock Hill in Christchurch, Kika in Wānaka, Auckland’s Paris Butter, Mudbrick on Waiheke Island and Sherwood and Amisfield in Queenstown.
In addition, Michelin’s Bib Gourmand recognises restaurants that offer good quality and good value cooking.
There are more than 3000 around the world with New Zealand entries added on Tuesday night including:
1154 Pastaria, Amano, Aosta, Apero food and wine, Atelier, Bianca, Bistro Saine, Boda, Bombay Palace Wānaka, Cazador, Cicio Cacio, Fire and Slice, Francesca, Gatherings, Gemmayze Street, Goat, Hummingbird, Indian Alley, Londo, Mileta, Muttonbird, Odeon, Osteria Uno, Paloma Taqueria, Pasta & Cuore, Roca, Soul Quarter, Sundays, Tempero, the Cow Queenstown, The Athens Yacht Club, The Monday Room and Treehouse.
A rollcall of 100 restaurants was picked to be included in New Zealand’s first Michelin Guide, published this month.
Michelin Guide international director Gwendal Poullennec said inspectors spent months dining anonymously across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown. They considered quality of ingredients, harmony of flavours, mastery of culinary technique, how the chef’s personality shines through and consistency over time.
Poullennec said while there were various “styles and interpretations” across menus, there was a common thread throughout New Zealand’s dining scene.
“A deep respect of exceptional produce, a strong connection to land and sea, inclusion of Māori and Pacific culture and the genuine warmth of hospitality,” he said.
“Here – seafood, produce, wine and landscape are not simply part of the story, they define the story.”
A small group of special awards were also given out. Michelin Young Chef was awarded to Robert Fairs from Londo in Christchurch. The Service Award, “someone who makes every single guest feel welcome”, went to Stina Persen from Graze in Wellington. Michelin’s Sommelier Award went home with Matthew Aitchison from The French Cafe in Auckland.
Tourism New Zealand is spending $6.3 million (US$3.5 million) to bring the Michelin Guide to NZ. The Guide (and its well-known star system) was created in 1900 by the French tyre company and now covers almost 50 destinations but has never had a presence in Oceania.
Before NZ additions, 161 restaurants worldwide held three-star status, the highest honour a restaurant can receive, signifying exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.
There are 544 restaurants with two stars for “excellent cooking that is worth a detour” and 3162 with one star awarded for a “very good restaurant” where dishes are prepared to a consistently high standard using top-quality ingredients…. PACNEWS
PNG – LABOUR REFORMS: ILO NEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 01 Jul 2026
Papua New Guinea pushes labour reforms via dialogue
PORT MORESBY, 01 JULY 2026 (ILO NEWS) — Representatives of the Papua New Guinea government, employers’ and workers’ organisations, and the Office of the State Solicitor met on 19 June 2026 in Port Moresby to advance ongoing labour law and policy reforms through tripartite social dialogue.
The meeting of the Tripartite Labour Law and Policy Reform Working Group marked an important step in strengthening Papua New Guinea’s labour governance framework.
Participants finalised the Working Group’s Terms of Reference, establishing a framework to guide collaboration among the tripartite constituents and other key stakeholders throughout the reform process.
The Working Group also reviewed and discussed its work plan, focusing on priority labour law and policy reform initiatives, including:
• the review and modernization of key provisions of the Employment Act.
• consultation and validation of the Workers’ Compensation Act; and
• follow-up actions related to the conclusions of the International Labour Conference’s Committee on the Application of Standards concerning the implementation of the Equal Remuneration Convention, 1951 (No. 100), and the Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111).
Representatives from the Office of the State Solicitor provided legal guidance on the proposed reforms, highlighting the importance of ensuring that legislative amendments are consistent with national legal requirements and aligned with international labour standards.
The discussions reaffirmed the commitment of the Government, employers’ and workers’ organisations to modernising Papua New Guinea’s labour legislation through inclusive social dialogue and strengthening compliance with international labour standards while responding to emerging labour market needs.
Opening the meeting, Martin Wandera, Director of the ILO Office for Pacific Island Countries, encouraged participants to maintain an inclusive and results-oriented approach to the reform process.
“Building a practical, inclusive and time-bound reform process will help strengthen labour governance, promote decent work, protect workers’ rights, support sustainable enterprises and contribute to Papua New Guinea’s economic and social development,” Wandera said.
Clemence Kanau, General Secretary of the Papua New Guinea Trade Union Congress, reaffirmed the commitment of the social partners to the reform process.
“Employers’ and workers’ organisations remain committed to working together on labour law reform. We appreciate the ILO’s continued technical support in reviewing and modernizing Papua New Guinea’s labour legislation,” he said.
The ILO is supporting the reform process through the Improving Labour Governance in Papua New Guinea Programme, funded by the Government of Australia. The programme aims to strengthen labour market governance and administration through improved legal and policy frameworks, enhanced labour market information systems, and strengthened social dialogue institutions.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment by the Government, employers’ and workers’ organisations, together with key legal and institutional partners, to continue advancing labour law and policy reforms that promote decent work, inclusive labour markets and sustainable economic development in Papua New Guinea…. PACNEWS
UN – SHIPPING: UN NEWS CENTRE PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 01 Jul 2026
Strait of Hormuz: Gradual re-opening is no quick fix for developing nations, UN warns
NEW YORK/GENEVA/TEHRAN, 01 JULY 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) — Re-opening the Strait of Hormuz would bring vital relief for many economies, but developing countries will continue to grapple with increased food and fuel costs, according to a new UN report released on Tuesday.
Following the shaky ceasefire in the .US and Israeli war with Iran, commercial shipping through the strait quickly began to rebound in mid-June but has slowed in recent days as Washington and Tehran have exchanged strikes in the region.
Iran has reportedly rejected an effort by France and Oman to remove mines from the strait and safeguard international trade as well as a suggestion by the UN’s International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to open a new shipping lane off the coast of Oman.
While the report from the UN Trade and Development agency (UNCTAD) expects oil shipments to recover, it warns that freight contracts, supply chains and food systems would take longer to adjust and that high food costs could contribute to acute malnutrition in developing countries.
Higher energy prices fuel higher transport costs, agricultural costs and inflation, which increases food prices long after the initial shock, UNCTAD noted.
Small island countries like Cabo Verde and Micronesia depend heavily on food and oil imports, which creates a “dual exposure” to shocks, making them especially vulnerable to price increases, UNCTAD said.
The agency estimated that 61 vulnerable economies are exposed to both oil and cereal import shocks.
Developing countries and small island States also tend to have tighter public finances and therefore less ability to absorb shocks, according to UNCTAD.
If these countries face difficulties mobilising resources, a heavy debt servicing burden, a drop in remittances or a decline in international aid, trade shocks could affect small nations even more.
Beyond economic impacts, UNCTAD warned that although it is necessary to fully re-open the strait, food production risks remain.
Even short periods of unaffordable food in import-dependent countries can have lasting consequences for child wasting, meaning that a child has a low weight-for-height.
As real food prices increase by five per cent, the risk of child wasting increases by 15 percent for poor children and 26 per cent for children of rural, landless poor households.
The report called for greater international support to help countries manage higher import costs, cushion food and fuel price shocks and strengthen their ability to cope with future trade disruptions.
“These shocks will be felt for many months, with developing countries bearing the heaviest impacts. I call on all parties to honour the ceasefire and redouble efforts,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS In Focus
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
PEV performance augurs well for this year’s ballot
By Finn Clarke, Stephen Howes, Natasha Turia
CANBERRA, 01 JULY 2026 (DEVPOLICY.ORG) — The Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV) provides up to 3,000 permanent residency visas for citizens of up to 12 Pacific island countries and Timor-Leste 9.
To obtain a PEV visa, you first must enter a ballot, then if you are randomly selected from the ballot you are invited to apply for a visa.
To be granted a visa you must then satisfy all the visa requirements, the most difficult of which is normally securing a job offer.
In 2024-25 only 1,006 PEV visas were granted. However, things sped up in 2025-26, and 1,953 PEV visas were granted between July 2025 and March 2026.
In all, 2,081 visas were granted by the end of March to the 2024-25 cohort, a 69 percent success rate relative to the 3,000 visas on offer. Our earlier prediction that this cohort would achieve a success rate of 70 percent now looks conservative. Perhaps it will get closer to 80 percent.
We have said in the past that the first cohort would have the hardest time getting a visa. Over time, as the visa became better known and job pathways better established, PEV visas would be issued more quickly.
This prediction is now borne out by the data. 878 visas were granted for the 2025-26 cohort by March this year. This compares very favourably to the 1,006 visas issued for the 2024-25 cohort by June last year: almost the same number of visas in only half the number of months. We would expect a close-to-100 percent success rate for the 2025-26 cohort, which is what New Zealand’s equivalent but much-longer-established Pacific Access Category visa achieves.
The pick-up in visa grants for the 2025-26 cohort as well as for the scheme as a whole is evident from the monthly data.
Tuvalu is the most successful PEV country. 93 of its 2024-25 allocation of 100 regular PEV visas have already been issued.
In 2025-26, Tuvalu switched to its own Falepili Treaty PEV visa stream, which offers 280 visas and has no job requirement. By the end of March, 86 percent of these Treaty visas (which are allocated on top of the 3,000 cap) had already been issued.
Timor-Leste, Fiji and Solomon Islands are the next three most successful countries. They have achieved more than an 80 percent grant-to-allocation ratio for their 2024-25 cohort, and so far, more than 50 percent for the 2025-26 cohort.
Meanwhile, allocations (quotas) have just been announced for the 2026-27 ballot which opens 01 July and closes 29 July.
There is one new inclusion in the ballot for 2026-27: the Republic of the Marshall Islands, which has been allocated 50 visas. Given the lack of interest in the PEV from the other two compact states — Palau and FSM — that also have unlimited migration rights to the U.S, the rationale for this is less than clear. Neither Palau nor FSM has come close to filling its quota in the last two years.
Other decisions make more sense. The Solomon Islands allocation was doubled from 150 to 300. This was at the request of the Solomon Islands government following recent discussions between the country’s new Prime Minister Matthew Wale with Australia’s PM Anthony Albanese as part of a plan to strengthen the relationship between the two countries, leading to a new treaty.
Tuvalu has been included in the regular PEV again, receiving 100 visas on top of its annual 280 Treaty visas. Tuvalu participated in the 2024-25 PEV round but waited out the 2025-26 round after it got access to its own PEV-like visas as part of the Falepili Union deal with Australia. But now Tuvalu is claiming its right to continue to access the regular PEV on top of its treaty visas. Given its success in the 2024-25 round, this is not surprising. If you include both, Tuvalu is now receiving 380 visas a year — the second-most out of any PEV participating country.
Vanuatu was not included in the initial 2026-27 announcement, but its participation has since been confirmed following the Vanuatu Prime Minister’s visit to Australia this week and the signing of the Nakamal Agreement.
Nauru is not participating in the 2026-27 PEV round. No reason has been given for this, though its low success rate in the first two rounds is evident.
In general, though, the growing success of ballot-winners in earlier PEV rounds should encourage participation this time round. We would expect last year’s ballot registration record to be broken by the time this year’s ballot closes at the end of July.
All data on visa grants provided by the Department of Home Affairs in response to data requests…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Fiji Meteorological Service marks new era in preserving Fiji’s climate history with archive handover
NADI, 01 JULY 2026 (FIJI MET) — The Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS) has officially taken ownership of a new Digital Archive and Document Management System, marking a major milestone in the preservation, management and accessibility of Fiji’s valuable meteorological and climate records.
The handover, sign-off and outcomes presentation of the Climate Services and Related Applications (ClimSA) Programme-supported Data Rescue and Digitisation (DARE) Project was held yesterday, celebrating the successful completion of the initiative and the transition of the system into FMS operations.
The event brought together representatives from the ClimSA Programme under the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), implementation partner Computer 1, former Directors, retired officers, pioneer staff members, invited guests and current FMS officers — recognising the generations of dedication and commitment that have contributed to preserving Fiji’s climate information over more than a century.
Speaking at the event, FMS Director Mr. Misaeli Funaki highlighted that the milestone was not only about completing a project but about protecting Fiji’s climate memory for future generations.
“Today, we gather not simply to mark the completion of a project, but to recognise an important milestone in the ongoing journey of preserving Fiji’s meteorological and climate heritage,” Funaki said.
He acknowledged the contributions of former leaders, station inspectors, climate officers and long-serving staff whose work over many decades helped safeguard the historical records that continue to support climate monitoring, research, weather and climate services, disaster risk reduction and informed decision-making.
“The records we preserve today are more than documents of the past. They are part of our collective climate memory and a valuable resource for the future,” he said.
Through the support of the ClimSA Programme, implemented through SPREP, and in partnership with Computer 1, FMS has established a modern digital platform powered by Therefore™ Document Management System to securely manage, index, retrieve and preserve historical meteorological and climate records.
The initiative has enabled the systematic preservation and digitisation of more than 210,000 digital images representing over 140 years of Fiji’s meteorological and climate history, strengthening access to information that supports national climate services.
ClimSA Project Manager Naheed Hussein congratulated FMS and the DARE Team for their commitment and dedication throughout the implementation of the project.
“Historical meteorological and climate records form a critical part of the climate services value chain. Data rescue and digitisation are not simply archival activities — they are investments in the future of climate services,” Mr. Hussein said.
He also acknowledged that the knowledge and experience gained through the initiative provide valuable lessons that can support similar data rescue and digitisation efforts across the Pacific region.
From Computer 1, Avinesh Krishna, the project’s technology partner, acknowledged that the initiative was about much more than technology.
“Behind every document, register, report and record lies a story — one that reflects decades of observations, dedication and service by generations of meteorological professionals,” Krishna said.
The successful completion of the project represents a new chapter for FMS as it continues the important work of preserving Fiji’s climate heritage while strengthening the availability and use of trusted climate information.
The event also served as an opportunity to honour the legacy of former FMS leaders and pioneer officers whose contributions helped build the foundations of the Service’s climate record-keeping system. Their dedication, knowledge and commitment over the years have ensured that valuable historical information remains available to guide today’s climate services and support future generations.
As FMS assumes full ownership of the Digital Archive and Document Management System, the Service remains committed to expanding digitisation efforts, strengthening climate information systems and sharing knowledge and experience with partners across the Pacific.
This milestone reflects a stronger foundation for a Weather Ready Pacific — where preserved climate knowledge contributes to improved resilience, better planning and stronger outcomes for communities.
FMHS extends its sincere appreciation to the ClimSA Programme, funded by the European Union, SPREP, Computer 1, Canon Therefore™, former and current officers, and all partners who contributed to this important achievement…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Fiji Meteorological Service strengthens pathway towards International Laboratory Accreditation through ISO/IEC 17025:2017 training workshop
SUVA, 01 JULY 2026 (FIJI MET) — The Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS) has taken another important step towards strengthening the quality, reliability, and credibility of its meteorological instrument calibration services with the opening of the ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Accreditation Training Workshop in Suva, Fiji.
The week-long workshop marks a significant milestone in FMS’s journey towards achieving ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation — an internationally recognised standard for testing and calibration laboratories that demonstrates technical competence, quality management, and confidence in laboratory results.
Opening the workshop, Director of the Fiji Meteorological Service, Misaeli Funaki, highlighted the importance of establishing RIC Nadi as a centre of technical excellence for the Pacific, ensuring meteorological instruments are calibrated to the highest standards.
“Today marks a significant milestone in our journey toward achieving ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation, a standard that represents excellence, credibility, and international recognition in calibration and testing,” Funaki said.
He acknowledged the strong support and partnership from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), whose assistance has been instrumental in bringing the vision of RIC Nadi to life.
Funaki also recognised the contribution of the Australian National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA), whose technical experts are supporting the workshop by guiding FMS through the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025:2017.
The workshop was supported through the Weather Ready Pacific Programme, administered by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen climate and weather resilience across the Pacific.
Representing SPREP and Weather Ready Pacific, Terry Atalifo congratulated FMS on its designation as a World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) Regional Training Centre, noting that this recognition reflects years of commitment, dedication, and investment in building capacity for Fiji and the wider Pacific region.
“This is not just a new logo for your slides; it is recognition of years of early mornings, late nights and quiet persistence in building capacity for Fiji and the wider Pacific,” Atalifo said.
He emphasised that achieving ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation is not only about meeting standards but about ensuring that weather and climate information used by communities, decision-makers, farmers, fishers, and disaster managers is supported by accurate and reliable measurements.
Throughout the workshop, participants will undertake training focused on key areas including:
*Quality management systems in laboratories
*Measurement uncertainty
*Internal auditing practices
These areas are essential in building a laboratory environment where results are consistent, trusted, and internationally comparable.
FMS has set an ambitious goal of achieving ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation for its testing and calibration activities by 2027. This milestone will further strengthen Fiji’s role as a regional leader in meteorological services and support the delivery of reliable weather and climate information for communities across the Pacific.
The Fiji Meteorological Service acknowledges the continued support and collaboration of JICA, JMA, NATA, SPREP, Weather Ready Pacific, and all partners who continue to contribute towards strengthening Pacific meteorological capacity.
Building stronger systems. Strengthening regional resilience. Delivering trusted weather and climate services for the Pacific…. PACNEWS
